Electronic faucet

ABSTRACT

An electronic faucet assembly includes a mixing valve and a user interface in communication with a controller. Input to the user interface illustratively causes the controller to operate in a flow control mode or a temperature control mode. In the flow control mode the mixing valve provides flow control of water at a constant temperature, while in the temperature control mode the mixing valve provides temperature control of water at a constant flow. A memory device may be secured to a faucet component to store identification data related thereto.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/362,765, filed Jun. 4, 2014, which is a national phase filing ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2012/068265, filed Dec. 6, 2012,which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.61/567,510, filed Dec. 6, 2011, the disclosures of which are expresslyincorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to an electronic faucet. Moreparticularly, the disclosure relates to an electronic faucet including amixing valve providing variable flow control, and a memory devicestoring faucet component data.

Mixing valves including rotatable valve members or discs are known inthe art. Such mixing valves are sometimes referred to as cycling valvesand provide for the mixing of hot and cold water for delivery to anoutlet. More particularly, outlet water temperature is increased whenthe valve disc is rotated in a first direction to provide for anincreased ratio of hot water to cold water, and outlet water temperatureis decreased when the valve disc is rotated in an opposite direction toprovide for an increased ratio of cold water to hot water.

An illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure includes anelectronic faucet allowing for flow control of outlet water at a fixedtemperature, and for temperature control of outlet water at a fixed flowrate. A cycling valve operably coupled to an actuator provides for flowcontrol of cold water by rotating the valve disc to intermediate off andfull cold flow positions, and provides for temperature control byrotating the valve disc between full cold and full hot positions. Anelectronic user interface operably coupled to the cycling valve providesa user selective variable flow control in a system primarily designedfor water mixing.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, anelectronic faucet includes a delivery spout having a dispensing outletand configured to be supported by a mounting deck. A mixing valve isfluidly coupled to the delivery spout and includes a hot water inlet, acold water inlet spaced from the hot water inlet, and an outlet spacedfrom the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet. A valve member issupported for movement relative to the hot water inlet and the coldwater inlet to control the flow of water from the hot water inlet andthe cold water inlet to the outlet. An actuator is operably coupled tothe valve member for moving the valve member. A controller is operablycoupled to the actuator and is configured to selectively provide a flowcontrol mode of operation and a temperature control mode of operation bycausing the actuator to move the valve member. A user interface is incommunication with the controller. Input to the user interface within afirst input range causes the controller to operate in the flow controlmode, and input to the user interface within a second input range causesthe controller to operate in the temperature control mode. The flowcontrol mode positions the valve member to provide variable flow rate ofwater through the cold water inlet to the outlet while preventing theflow of water through the hot water inlet to the outlet. The temperaturecontrol mode positions the valve member to provide a substantiallyconstant flow rate of water through the outlet and variable mixing ofwater from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet to adjust thetemperature of water in the outlet.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure,an electronic faucet includes a delivery spout having a dispensingoutlet and supported above a mounting deck. A mixing valve is supportedbelow the mounting deck and includes a hot water inlet, a cold waterinlet spaced from the hot water inlet, an outlet spaced from the hotwater inlet and the cold water inlet, and a valve member supported formovement relative to the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet tocontrol the flow of water from the hot water inlet and the cold waterinlet to the outlet. An actuator is operably coupled to the valve memberfor moving the valve member. A controller is operably coupled to theactuator and is configured to provide a flow control mode and atemperature control mode by causing the actuator to move the valvemember. The flow control mode provides variable flow rate of waterthrough the cold water inlet to the outlet while preventing the flow ofwater through the hot water inlet to the outlet. The temperature controlmode provides substantially constant flow rate of water through theoutlet and variable mixing of water from the hot water inlet and thecold water inlet to adjust the temperature of water at the outlet. Avalve position sensor is operably coupled to the valve member and is inelectrical communication with the controller. A user interface is inelectrical communication with the controller and comprises a rotatableinput member. A user interface position sensor is operably coupled tothe input member and is in electrical communication with the controller.The controller causes the actuator to move the valve member in responseto input from the user interface position sensor. Rotation of the inputmember within a first angular range causes the controller to operate inthe flow control mode, and rotation of the input member within a secondangular range causes the controller to operate in the temperaturecontrol mode. The flow control mode provides variable flow rate of waterthrough the cold water inlet to the outlet while preventing the flow ofwater through the hot water inlet to the outlet, and the temperaturecontrol mode provides substantially constant flow rate of water throughthe outlet and variable mixture of water from the hot water inlet andthe cold water inlet to adjust the temperature of water at the outlet.

According to a further illustrative embodiment of the presentdisclosure, an electronic faucet includes a mixing valve having a hotwater inlet, a cold water inlet spaced from the hot water inlet, anoutlet spaced from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet, and avalve member supported for movement relative to the hot water inlet andthe cold water inlet to control the flow of water from the hot waterinlet and the cold water inlet to the outlet. An actuator is operablycoupled to the valve member for moving the valve member. A controller isoperably coupled to the actuator and is configured to provide a flowcontrol mode and a temperature control mode by causing the actuator tomove the valve member. A valve position sensor is operably coupled tothe valve member and is in electrical communication with the controller.A user interface is operably coupled to the controller and comprises arotatable input member. A user interface position sensor is operablycoupled to the input member and is in electrical communication with thecontroller. The controller causes the actuator to move the valve memberin response to input from the user interface position sensor. Atemperature sensor is in electrical communication with the controllerand is configured to measure temperature of water provided to theoutlet. The controller provides incremental water temperature controlwithin a predetermined temperature range by associating rotationalposition of the valve member with a selective one of a plurality ofsetpoint temperatures. The setpoint temperatures within a predeterminedrange are linearized between a cold temperature limit and a hottemperature limit. The controller causes the actuator to move the valvemember to a predicted position based upon the selected setpointtemperature, and adjusts the position of the valve member based uponmeasured temperature feedback from the temperature sensor.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure,an electronic faucet includes a delivery spout having a dispensingoutlet and supported above a mounting deck. A mixing valve is fluidlycoupled to the delivery spout and includes a hot water inlet, a coldwater inlet spaced from the hot water inlet, an outlet spaced from thehot water inlet and the cold water inlet, and a valve member supportedfor rotation relative to the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet tocontrol the flow of water from the hot water and cold water inlets tothe outlet. An electrically operable actuator is operably coupled to thevalve member for moving the valve member. A controller is operablycoupled to the actuator. A user interface is in electrical communicationwith the controller and comprises a rotatable input member. Thecontroller causes the actuator to rotate the valve member in response torotation of the input member, such that successive rotation of the valvemember provides for flow control of water at constant temperature to theoutlet, followed by temperature control of water at constant flow to theoutlet.

According to a further illustrative embodiment of the presentdisclosure, an electronic faucet includes an upper faucet componentconfigured to be coupled above a sink deck, the upper faucet componentincluding a user interface. An electrically operable valve is configuredto be supported below the sink deck. A component memory device issecured to the upper faucet component, the component memory devicestoring identification data associated with the faucet component. Acontroller is in electrical communication with the user interface, theelectrically operable valve and the component memory device, thecontroller configured to receive the control configuration from thecomponent memory device, the identification data representative of acontrol configuration of the user interface, the controller selecting aset of instructions based upon the control configuration, the set ofinstructions controlling operation of the electrically operable valve inresponse to input from the user interface.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure,an electronic faucet assembly includes a faucet component, and acomponent memory device secured to the faucet component, the componentmemory device storing identification data associated with the faucetcomponent. A controller is in electrical communication with thecomponent memory device, the controller determining a controlconfiguration based upon the identification data received from thecomponent memory device, and operating the faucet based upon thedetermined control configuration.

According to a further illustrative embodiment of the presentdisclosure, a method of controlling operation of a faucet includes thesteps of providing a plurality of faucet components and a controller, atleast one of the faucet components including a memory device inelectrical communication with the controller, and at least one of thefaucet components including an electrically operable valve in electricalcommunication with the controller. The method further includes the stepsof transmitting identification data associated with the faucet componentfrom the memory device to the controller, and selecting instructionswith the controller for operating the electrically operable valve basedupon the identification data.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the followingdetailed description of the illustrative embodiment exemplifying thebest mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description of the drawings particularly refers to theaccompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative electronic faucetmounted to a sink deck and fluidly coupled to hot and cold watersupplies;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the electronic valve assemblyof the faucet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an upper exploded perspective view of the mixing valve of theelectronic valve assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a lower exploded perspective view of the mixing valve of FIG.4;

FIG. 6 is a rear exploded perspective view of flow control members andcarrier of the mixing valve of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a partial exploded view showing interaction of the housing andcarrier of the mixing valve;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the delivery spout and user interface ofthe faucet of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is an upper exploded perspective view of the user interface ofFIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a lower exploded perspective view of the user interface ofFIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of FIG.8;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic view showing constant temperature, variableflow control in a first mode, and variable temperature and constant flowcontrol in a second mode;

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing interactions between variouselectrical components and the controller of the faucet of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 14A-14F are top plan views of different angular positions of theuser interface input member;

FIGS. 15A-15F are top plan views of different angular of the flowcontrol member associated with the angular positions of the userinterface input member of FIGS. 14A-14F, respectively;

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic representation of various control componentsin a first illustrative embodiment faucet;

FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic representation of various control componentsin a second illustrative embodiment faucet;

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic representation of illustrative identificationdata components stored on a memory device; and

FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic representation of communication between memorydevices of different faucet components.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the invention described herein are not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to precise forms disclosed. Rather,the embodiments selected for description have been chosen to enable oneskilled in the art to practice the invention.

With reference initially to FIG. 1, an illustrative electronic faucet 10according to the present disclosure includes an upper faucet component,illustratively a delivery spout 12, coupled to a mounting deck 14. Thedelivery spout 12 extends above the mounting deck 14 for dispensingwater through a dispensing end or outlet 16 into a sink basin 20. Anelectronic flow control system 22 is illustratively supported below themounting deck 14 and is fluidly coupled to the delivery spout 12 througha dispensing conduit 24. A hot water supply line or conduit 26 and acold water supply line or conduit 28 are fluidly coupled to theelectronic flow control system 22. More particularly, the fluid supplyconduits 26 and 28 are configured to provide water from hot and coldwater supplies, such as conventional stops 30 and 32, respectively, tothe electronic flow control system 22.

The dispensing conduit 24 provides a fluid coupling between the deliveryspout 12 and the electronic flow control system 22. Similarly, anelectrical cable 34 provides an electrical coupling between a userinterface 35 supported by the delivery spout 12 above the mounting deck14 and the electronic flow control system 22.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic flow control system 22illustratively includes a housing 36 configured to be mounted below themounting deck 14. The housing 36 includes a rear portion 38 coupled to afront portion or cover 40 defining an enclosure 42 to receive a mixingvalve 44, a valve actuator 46 operably coupled to the mixing valve 44,and a controller 50 in communication with the actuator 46. The mixingvalve 44 and valve actuator 46 may be referred to as an electronicproportioning valve (EPV) or electrically operably valve. The cover 40includes tabs 52 configured to be received within openings or slots 54of the rear portion 38. The rear portion 38 includes a resilient latch58 to secure the cover 40 to the rear portion 38 of the housing 36. Ascrew 60 may be threadably received within a boss to the rear portion 38to further secure the cover 40 thereto. The rear portion 38illustratively includes a pair of mounting tabs 62 with apertures 64 forreceiving fasteners (not shown) therein to secure the electronic flowcontrol system 22 to a mounting surface below the deck 14.

A maximum temperature user input 61 is supported within the enclosure 42and is in electrical communication with the controller 50. The maximumtemperature user input 61 illustratively includes a rotatable shaft 63accessible by a user and operably coupled to a rotary switch 65. Byrotating the shaft 63 and corresponding switch 65 between differentdiscrete positions, a maximum or hot temperature limit is set(illustratively, three limits may be set: 110° F., 115° F., and 120°F.). As further detailed herein, the controller 50 prevent the mixingvalve 44 from supplying water to the spout 12 exceeding the hottemperature limit. A cap 67 covers the shaft 63 and is removablysupported by the cover 40 of the housing 36.

The mixing valve 44 is positioned within the enclosure 42 defined byhousing 36. The mixing valve 44 includes a valve body 66 operablycoupled to a valve housing 68. The valve body 66 and the valve housing68 together define a chamber 70 receiving flow control members 72 and74. The mixing valve 44 and, more particularly the flow control members72 and 74, control the flow of water from the fluid supply conduits 26and 28 to the dispensing conduit 24.

The valve body 66 illustratively includes a base 76 supporting the flowcontrol members 72 and 74. A hot water inlet 78 and a cold water inlet80 are in fluid communication with a hot water inlet port 82 and a coldwater inlet port 84, respectively, of the base 70. Similarly, an outlet86 is in fluid communication with an outlet port 88 of the base 76 andextends perpendicular to the inlets 78 and 80. The inlets 78 and 80include fluid couplings, illustratively external threads 90 and 92,configured to be fluidly coupled to the fluid supply conduits 26 and 28,respectively.

Filter screens 94 and 96 are illustratively received within the hotwater and cold water inlets 78 and 80, respectively. A swivel adapter 98is fluidly and rotatably coupled to the outlet 86. The swivel adapter 98illustratively includes a first conduit 100 fluidly coupled to theoutlet 86, and a second conduit 102 extending perpendicular to the firstconduit 100 and configured to be fluidly coupled to the dispensingconduit 24. O-rings 104 seal the swivel adapter 98 with the valve body66, and o-rings 106 seal the swivel adapter 98 with the dispensingconduit 24.

As further detailed herein, a temperature sensor or thermistor 110 isfluidly coupled to the outlet 86. An electrical wire 112 having aconnector 114 electrically couples the temperature sensor 110 to thecontroller 50. The temperature sensor 110 measures the temperature ofwater delivered to the outlet port 88 and provides a signal indicativethereof to the controller 50. An o-ring 116 seals the temperature sensor110 within the outlet 86.

The valve housing 68 illustratively includes a cylindrical sidewall 118and an end cap or wall 120. A boss 122 extends upwardly from the endwall 120 and defines a center opening or bore 124 to facilitate couplingbetween the mixing valve 44 and the valve actuator 46 through a discretainer or carrier 126.

A mounting plate 130 is positioned above the valve housing 68. A pair ofpegs 132 of the valve housing 68 may be received within openings 134 inthe mounting plate 130 to prevent rotational movement therebetween. Aplurality of bolts 136 pass through openings 138 in the base 76 of thevalve body 66 and may be threadably received within openings 140 in themounting plate 130 and, as such, secure the valve housing 68 to thevalve body 66. As further detailed herein, an end-of-travel (EOT) sensor142 may be supported by the valve housing 68 and is electrically coupledto the controller 50.

The flow control members 72 and 74 received within the chamber 70 of themixing valve 44 illustratively include a movable valve member or upperdisc 72 sealingly engaging a fixed valve member or lower disc 74. Thelower disc 74 is supported by the base 76 of the valve body 66 andincludes hot and cold water openings 146 and 148 in fluid communicationwith the hot and cold water inlet ports 82 and 84, respectively, of thevalve body 66. The lower disc 74 also includes an outlet opening 150 influid communication with the outlet port 88 of the valve body 66. Agasket 152 provides a fluid seal between the lower disc 74 and the valvebody 66 and may be received within opposing channels 154 and 156 formedwithin the base 76 of the valve body 66 and the lower surface 158 of thelower disc 74, respectively. Notches 160 are formed in the outer edge ofthe lower disc 74 and receive tabs 162 extending upwardly from the base76 of the valve body 66 to rotationally locate and fix the lower disc 74relative to the valve body 66.

The upper disc 72 includes a lower surface 164 for sealingly engagingwith an upper surface 166 of the lower disc 74. A flow control recess orpassageway 170 is formed in the lower surface 164 of the upper disc 72and provides for selective fluid communication between the hot and coldwater inlet ports 82, 84 and the outer port 88. More particularly, asthe upper disc 72 is rotated about its center axis 172, flow from theopenings 146, 148 (and therefore inlet ports 82, 84) to the outletopening 150 (and therefore port 88) varies. The controller 50 isoperably coupled to the actuator 46 and is configured to selectivelyprovide a flow control mode of operation and a temperature control modeof operation by causing the actuator 46 to move the valve member 72 inrotation about its center axis 172.

With further reference to FIG. 6, the flow control recess 170 includeshot water control edges 174, 176 and cold water control edges 178, 180.As further detailed in connection with FIGS. 15A-15F, the control edges174, 176, 178, 180 are configured to selectively overlap with the hotand cold water openings 146 and 148 of the lower disc 74 to provide (1)variable flow rates of water delivery to the outlet opening 150, andhence outlet 86, at constant temperature (i.e., flow control mode); and(2) substantially constant flow rate of water delivered to the outletopening 150, and hence the outlet port 86, as the water temperature isvaried between cold and hot temperature limits (i.e., temperaturecontrol mode). The stepped control edges 174, 176, 178, 180 maintain asubstantially constant flow area to maintain the substantially constantflow rate in the temperature control mode.

The disc retainer or carrier 126 is operably coupled to the upper disc72. More particularly, the carrier 126 includes a plurality ofdownwardly extending tabs 182 configured to be received within recesses184 formed in the upper surface 186 of the upper disc 72. As such,rotation of the carrier 126 results in rotation of the upper disc 72. Anupper extension 188 of the carrier 126 extends upwardly through the bore124 of the valve housing 68. A pair of friction rings or washers 190 arereceived around the extension 188, intermediate an upper surface 192 ofthe carrier 126 and the end wall 120 of the valve housing 68.

With further reference to FIG. 7, the end-of-travel (EOT) sensor 142 issupported by the valve housing 68 and is operably coupled to the carrier126. More particularly, the carrier 126 includes a radially outwardlyextending arcuate flange 194 having opposing ends 196 and 198 definingan arcuate opening or slot 200 extending therebetween. The end-of-travelsensor 142 illustratively comprises a photo interrupter sensor includinga support board 202, illustratively a printed circuit board (PCB),supporting a light emitter/detector assembly 204. The support board 202is supported outside of the valve housing 68, while the lightemitter/detector assembly 204 passes through a slot 212 formed in thesidewall 118 and is secured in place by a coupler 214, such as a pin.The arcuate slot 200 defines a maximum rotational operating range (i.e.,travel) of the carrier 126 and hence, the valve disc 72. Moreparticularly, when either end 196, 198 of the flange 194 is detected bypassing within the light emitter/detector assembly 204, the controller50 receives a signal indicative thereof and stops operation of theactuator 46. In the illustrative embodiment, the ends 196 and 198 of theflange 194 are angularly offset by a predetermined angle a,illustratively about 100 degrees. As such, the carrier 126 may berotated by the angle a before the end-of-travel sensor before theend-of-travel sensor 142 sends an end-of-travel signal to the controller50.

A mechanical or hard limit stop is also provided between the valvehousing 68 and the carrier 126. More particularly, the carrier 126includes stop members 216 and 218 configured to engage opposing endsurfaces 220 and 222 of a limit block 224 supported by the sidewall 118of the valve housing 68. As such, rotational movement of the carrier126, and valve disc 72, is limited should the electronic end-of-travelsensor 142 not limit rotational movement of the carrier 126.Illustratively, the stop members 216 and 218 are angularly offset by apredetermined angle β, and the end surfaces 220 and 222 are angularlyspaced by a predetermined angle γ. In the illustrative embodiment, angleβ is equal to approximately 144 degrees, while angle γ is equal toapproximately 40 degrees. As such, the illustrative maximum angularmovement permitted by the limit stop defined by engagement between stopmembers 216, 218 and end surfaces 220, 222, respectively, is about 104degrees.

The actuator 46 illustratively includes a direct current (DC) motor 230operably coupled to a gear assembly or motor 232. The gear assembly 232is secured to the mounting plate 130 through a plurality of screws 234.A rotatable output shaft 236 of the DC motor 230 drives an output shaft238 of the gear assembly 232 in rotation. The output shaft 238 isreceived within an aperture 240 formed within the extension 188 of thecarrier 126. As such, the output shaft 238 drives the carrier 126 andvalve disc 72 in rotation.

A valve position sensor 242 is operably coupled to the DC motor 230 todetermine the rotational position of the shaft 236, and therefore therotational position of the valve disc 72. Illustratively, the valveposition sensor 242 includes an encoder wheel 244 operably coupled witha emitter/detector assembly 246. More particularly, the wheel 244 iscoupled to rotate with the shaft 236, wherein the light emitter/detectorassembly 246, which includes a light emitter and a light detector,observes openings or marks on the wheel 244 and provides a signalindicative the rotational position of the motor shaft 236 and the valvedisc 72 to the controller 50.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 8, the electronic user interface 35illustratively includes a first or flow user input 250 supported abovethe mounting deck 14, illustratively by the delivery spout 12. Moreparticularly, the delivery spout 12 illustratively includes an uprightportion 252 and an arcuate outlet portion 254. The user input 250 isillustratively supported at the upper end of the upright portion 252 andincludes a rotatable member 256, illustratively a dial. Rotation of thedial 256 results in the controller 50 causing the actuator 46 to drivethe valve disc 72 in rotation.

While the illustrative user input 250 is shown as a rotatable dial 256supported by the delivery spout 12, the user input 250 may be otherconventional input devices having different control configurations, suchas touch buttons, slide switches, etc. for providing user input signalsto the controller 50. Additionally, the user input 250 may be locatedwith other faucet components (e.g., manual valve handle, faucet hub,etc.) or define a separate faucet component at a remote controllocation.

With reference to FIGS. 9-11, the dial 256 illustratively includes abase 258 including an upper surface 260 including a plurality of indicia262 for indicating desired or setpoint water temperature. The indicia262 may include representations for off 262 a, cold water 262 b, and hotwater 262 c. Additional indicia 262 d-262 h may represent temperaturesintermediate cold water 262 b and hot water 262 c. The indicia 262 areillustratively selectively alignable with a mark 264, such as an arrow,supported by the spout 12. The base 258 includes a plurality of verticalgrooves or recesses 266 to assist a user in gripping and rotating thedial 256. A coupling member 270 includes a cylindrical sidewall 272extending downwardly from the base 258. A retaining tab 274 extendsdownwardly from the sidewall 272.

A stem 280 is coupled to the base 258 for rotation therewith. The stem280 includes a lens 282 overmolded about an insert stud 284. A finial286 threadably couples with external threads 288 of the insert stud 284and extends upwardly form the upper surface 260 of the base 258. A lowerend of the lens 282 includes threads 290 threadably received within athreaded opening 292 in a lower end of the base 258.

The dial 256 further includes a bearing member 300 coupled to a bracket302. The bearing member 300 includes a body 304 and a plurality ofresilient fingers 306 extending upwardly from the body 304. Theresilient fingers 306 include radially outwardly extending tabs 308configured to be received within an internal groove 310 formed withinthe coupling member 270 of the base 258. More particularly, the tabs 308axially secure the base 258 to the bearing member 300. A recess or notch312 is configured to receive the retaining tab 274 of the dial 256 forrotatably locating and securing the dial 256 relative to the bearingmember 300. A flange 314 extends radially outwardly from the body 304and includes a tab 316 configured to cooperate with the spout 12. Acylindrical sidewall 318 extends downwardly from the flange 314.

A biasing member 320, illustratively a wave spring, is receivedintermediate the bearing member 300 and the base 258. More particularly,the wave spring 320 is radially received intermediate the fingers 306and a plurality of tabs 322, and axially intermediate an upper surface324 of the bearing member 300 and a lower surface 326 of the base 258.The wave spring 320 biases the base 258 of the dial 256 away from thebearing member 300 to accommodate dimensional tolerances.

The bracket 302 includes a base 330 supporting a plurality of upwardlyextending fingers 332 having radially inwardly extending tabs 334. Thetabs 334 are received within an external annular groove 336 formedwithin the side wall 318 of the bearing member 300. The tabs 334 axiallysecure the dial 256 to the bracket 302 while permitting relativerotation therebetween. A stop member 338, illustratively a finger,extends upwardly from the base 330 and is configured to engage limitsurfaces 340 and 342 supported by the flange 314 of the bearing member300 for limiting rotational movement of the dial 256. In oneillustrative embodiment, the limit surfaces 340 and 342 engage the stopmember 338 to limit rotation of the dial 256 to approximately 124degrees.

An electronics assembly 350 is positioned intermediate the bearingmember 300 and the bracket 302. The electronics assembly 350 includes asupport board 352, illustratively a printed circuit board (PCB), coupledto the base 330 of the bracket 302 through a plurality of latch arms354. The support board 352 operably couples a user interface positionsensor 356 and a temperature indicator 358 to the controller 50.

The user interface position sensor 356 illustratively comprises a rotarysensor 360 operably coupled to the dial 256. More particularly, thebearing member 300 includes an L-shaped arm 362 supporting a shaft 364for transmitting rotation from the dial 256 to the rotary sensor 360.The rotary sensor 360 may be of conventional design, such as apotentiometer, for transmitting a voltage signal indicative ofrotational position of the dial 256 to the controller 50.

The temperature indicator 358 is coupled to the controller 50 forproviding a visual indication to a user of water temperature at theoutlet 86 as measured by the temperature sensor 110. Illustratively, thetemperature indicator 358 comprises a light, such as a multiple colorlight emitting diode (LED) 366. As further detailed herein, thetemperature indicator 358 may comprise a red/blue bicolor LED 366,wherein blue light emitted by the LED 366 represents cold water asmeasured by the temperature sensor 110, and red light emitted by the LED366 represents hot water as measured by the temperature sensor 110.Mixed or intermediate temperature water is illustratively represented bya blend of red and blue light emitted by the LED 366. Different waterflow rates may be represented by different light intensities ormagnitudes being emitted by the LED 366. For example, low flow ratesselected by the user may be represented by low intensity light emittedby the LED 366, while higher flow rates selected by the user may berepresented by higher intensity light emitted by the LED 366. Further,different status conditions (e.g., operating modes, low battery, etc.)of the faucet 10 may be indicated by the LED 366, for example throughflashing patterns. The LED 366 is electrically coupled to the supportboard 352 through wires 368, while the LED 366 is positioned within thelens 282 of the stem 280. As such, light is visible within a window 369defined intermediate the upper surface of the base 258 and the finial286.

The bracket 302 is illustratively received within an opening 370 at theupper end of the upright portion 252 of the delivery spout 12. Moreparticularly, a side wall or shell 372 of the spout 12 defines theopening 370 and receives the base 330 of the bracket 302. A downwardlyextending peg 374 is received within a recess 376 inside the opening 370proximate the wall 372 to assist in locating the bracket 302 relative tothe spout 12. The tab 316 of the bearing member 300 extends radiallyoutwardly from the flange 314 and is received within an arcuate slot 378in the spout 12. More particularly, during assembly the tab 316 is movedaxially downwardly through a vertical slot 380 and is then rotatablewithin the arcuate slot 378. A retaining or set screw 382 extendsthrough the upright portion 252 of the spout 12 and cooperates with alip 384 positioned downwardly from the base 330 for securing the bracket302 to the delivery spout 12.

In certain illustrative embodiments, the electronic user interface 35may further include a second or activation user input 390 operablycoupled to the spout 12 for activating water flow through the mixingvalve 44. The activation user input 390 is in electrical communicationwith the controller 50 for providing an additional means for activatingwater flow through the spout 12. While the first or flow user input 250illustratively provides user control of water flow and temperature(through proportioning water flow between hot and cold water inlet ports82 and 84) in the manner detailed herein (including an off or no flowposition), the activation user input 390 is configured to activate anddeactivate water flow based upon the user selected position or setpointof the dial 256.

The activation user input 390 may comprise a proximity sensor, such asan infrared sensor coupled to the spout 12. In other illustrativeembodiments, the activation user input 390 may comprise a capacitivesensor. The capacitive sensor 390 may function as a touch sensor and/ora proximity sensor to control activation of the mixing valve 44 in amanner similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No.2011/0253220 to Sawaski et al., the disclosure of which is expresslyincorporated by reference herein.

With reference to FIG. 13, an electrode 392 of the capacitive sensor 390is illustratively coupled to the spout 12. The side wall or shell 372 ofthe spout 12 may be formed of an electrically conductive material (e.g.,a metal) and define the electrode 392. In other illustrativeembodiments, the electrode 392 may be defined by a separate electricallyconductive element, such as a metal plate. Any suitable capacitivesensor 390 may be used, such as a CapSense capacitive sensor availablefrom Cypress Semiconductor Corporation. An output from the capacitivesensor 390 is coupled to the controller 50. As noted above, thecapacitive sensor 390 and electrode 392 may be used as both a touchsensor and a hands free proximity sensor.

By sensing capacitive changes with the capacitive sensor 390, thecontroller 50 can make logical decisions to control different modes ofoperation of the faucet 10, such as changing between a touch mode ofoperation and a hands free proximity mode of operation. In the touchmode of operation, the capacitive sensor 390 and controller 50 detect auser's hand or other object (e.g., user's forearm, elbow, etc.) incontact with the spout 12. In the hands free mode of operation, thecapacitive sensor 390 and controller 50 detect a user's hand or otherobject (e.g., user's forearm, elbow, cup, etc.) within a detection zoneor area (not shown) located near the spout 12.

A user may selectively enable or disable the hands free proximity modeof operation by using a series of touches of the spout 12. Theelectronic faucet 10 may include an indicator to provide a visual and/oraudible indication when the faucet 10 is in the hands free proximitymode. Illustratively, the temperature indicator 358 may provide a visualindication by flashing the LED 366 when in an active hands freeproximity mode by flashing, and by providing constant light from the LED366 when in an active touch mode. In alternative embodiments, a modeselector switch (not shown) may be coupled to the controller 50 forselectively enabling and disabling the proximity mode.

In operation, the user may enable or disable the hands free proximitymode by using a predetermined pattern of touching the spout 12. Forexample, the hands free mode may be toggled on and off by twice quicklytouching the spout 12, or by grasping the spout 12 for a predeterminedtime period. It is understood that other touching patterns may be usedto turn on and off the hand free proximity mode of operation.

The controller 50 determines whether or not the hands free proximitymode is enabled. If enabled, the controller 50 monitors the capacitivesignal for proximity detection. In other words, the controller 50monitors an output from the capacitive sensor 390 to determine whether auser's hands or other object are within the detection area proximate thespout 12. If so, then the controller 50 sends a signal to open themixing valve 44 to the setpoint position of the dial 256, whilecontinuing to monitor the hands free proximity detection area. If theuser's hands are not detected within the detection area, the controller50 closes the valve 44 if it is open.

If the hands free proximity mode of operation is disabled, thecontroller 50 monitors the capacitive signal from the capacitive sensor390 for touch detection. The controller 50 determines whether a touch(tap or grab) is detected on the spout 12. If no touch is detected, thecontroller 50 continue monitoring. If a touch is detected, then thecontroller 50 determines the touch pattern. Depending upon the length oftime that the spout 12 is touched (tap or grab) and the pattern oftouching (number of touches), different functions may be implemented.For example, the touch duration and patterns may activate and deactivatefeatures such as the hands free proximity sensing on and off, or setother program features.

With reference now to FIGS. 12 and 13, interaction between thecontroller 50, user interface 35, and valve position sensor 242 will befurther detailed for providing the flow control and temperature controlmodes of operation of the mixing valve 44.

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic representation of flow rate (Q) at the outletvs. rotational position (P) of the valve member in a first, or flowcontrol mode of operation, and in a second, or temperature control modeof operation. In FIG. 12, the x-axis represents the rotational positionof the valve disc 72, and the y-axis represents flow rate. Relative flowrates of cold water and hot water are represented by different shadedareas.

In the first, or flow control mode of operation, the controller 50illustratively causes clockwise rotation of the valve disc 72 within afirst angular range (illustratively 0 to 40 degrees). As the rotationalposition of the valve disc 72 increases within the first angular range,the flow rate of water supplied to spout 12 through the outlet 86increases, while the water temperature remains substantially constant(at the minimum temperature or cold water limit). In other words, in thefirst mode, the rotational positions of the valve disc 72 are associatedwith setpoint water flow rates determined by the rotational position ofthe dial 256.

In the second, or temperature control mode of operation, the controller50 illustratively causes further clockwise rotation of the valve disc 72within a second angular range (illustratively 40 to 100 degrees). As therotational position of the valve disc 72 increases within the secondangular range, the temperature of water (i.e., the mix ratio of hotwater to cold water) supplied to the spout 12 through the outlet 86increases, while the flow rate of the water remains substantiallyconstant. In other words, in the second mode, the rotational positionsof the valve disc 72 are associated with setpoint water temperaturesdetermined by the rotational position of the dial 256.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing various electronic components inelectrical communication with the controller 50. A power supply 396,such as a building power supply and/or a battery power supply, iselectrically coupled to the controller 50. Inputs to the controller 50illustratively include signals from the end-of-travel senor 142, themaximum temperature user input 61, the valve position sensor 242, thetemperature sensor 110, and the user interface 35, which may include theflow user input 250 and the activation user input 390. As furtherdetailed herein, additional information may be provided to thecontroller 50 from a memory device 400 supported by a faucet component,illustratively the spout 12, positioned above the mounting deck 14.Outputs from the controller 50 illustratively include signals to theactuator 46 and the temperature indicator 358.

Illustrative operation of the faucet 10 will now be described withreference to FIGS. 14A-15F. FIGS. 14A-14F show different rotationalpositions of the dial 256 of the flow user input 250. FIGS. 15A-15F showdifferent rotational positions of the valve disc 72 associated with thedial 256 positions of FIGS. 14A-14F. As described above in connectionwith FIG. 12, the controller 50 provides incremental water flow ratecontrol (with constant water temperature) by associating rotationalpositions of the valve disc 72 with a selected one of a plurality ofsetpoint flow rates determined by the rotational position of the dial256. The controller 50 also provides incremental water temperaturecontrol within a predetermined temperature range (with constant waterflow rate) by associating rotational position of the valve disc 72 witha selected one of a plurality of setpoint temperatures determined by theangular position of the dial 256.

The setpoint temperatures within a predetermined range (illustrativelythe second angular range described above) are linearized between a coldwater temperature limit and a hot temperature limit. Illustratively, thecold water temperature limit is the temperature of the water suppliedfrom the cold water inlet as measured by the temperature sensor 110,while the hot water temperature limit is the water temperature set bythe maximum temperature user input 61. The controller 50 causes theactuator to move the valve disc 72 to a predicted position based uponthe selected setpoint temperature, and adjusts the position of the valvedisc 72 based upon measured temperature feedback from the temperaturesensor 110.

FIGS. 14A and 15A represent the faucet 10 in an off mode. Moreparticularly, the dial 256 is shown in 14A in a home position rotated toits furthest most clockwise position (as set by engagement between thestop member 338 and limit surface 340 of the bearing member 300). Therotary sensor 360 provides a signal to the controller 50 of therotational position of the dial 256. In response, the controller 50positions the valve disc 72 as shown in FIG. 15A. More particularly, thevalve disc 72 blocks flow through both the hot water and cold waterinlet openings 146 and 148 such that no water flows through the flowcontrol recess 170 to the outlet opening 150 and outlet 86. In otherwords, neither the hot water inlet opening 146 nor the cold water inletopening 148 of the lower disc 74 are in fluid communication with theflow control recess 170 of the upper disc 72. In this state, the LED 366of temperature indicator 358 is not illuminated.

FIGS. 14B and 15B represent the faucet 10 in a cold water, low flowposition within the flow control mode. This position is illustrativelyset when the dial 256 is rotated approximately 10 degrees in acounterclockwise direction from the position shown in FIG. 14A. Therotary sensor 360 provides a signal to the controller 50 of therotational position of the dial 256. In response, the controller 50positions the valve disc 72 as shown in FIG. 15B. More particularly, thevalve disc 72 continues to block flow through the hot water inletopening 146, while permitting limited water flow through the cold waterinlet opening 148. The outer control edge 178 of the flow control recess170 in the valve disc 72 overlaps approximately ⅓^(rd) of the cold waterinlet opening 148. As such, cold water passes from cold water inlet 80,through cold water inlet opening 148 and flow control recess 170, tooutlet opening 150 and outlet 86. In this state, the LED 366 oftemperature indicator 358 provides a dim (e.g., 33% full illumination)blue light.

FIGS. 14C and 15C represent the faucet 10 in a cold water, intermediateflow position within the flow control mode. This position isillustratively set when the dial 256 is rotated approximately 20 degreesin a counterclockwise direction from the position shown in FIG. 14A. Therotary sensor 360 provides a signal to the controller 50 of therotational position of the dial 256. In response, the controller 50positions the valve disc 72 as shown in FIG. 15C. More particularly, thevalve disc 72 continues to block flow through the hot water inletopening 146, while permitting limited water flow through the cold waterinlet opening 148. The outer control edge 178 of the control recess 170in the valve disc 72 overlaps approximately ⅔^(rd) of the cold waterinlet opening 148. As such, cold water passes from cold water inlet 80,through cold water inlet opening 148 and flow control recess 170, tooutlet opening 150 and outlet 86. In this state, the LED 366 oftemperature indicator 358 provides an intermediate (e.g., 66% fullillumination) blue light.

FIGS. 14D and 15D represent the faucet 10 in a cold water, full flowposition. This is illustratively the transition point between the flowcontrol mode and the temperature control mode. The cold water, full flowposition provides the maximum flow rate at the minimum temperature tothe outlet 86. This position is illustratively set when the dial 256 isrotated approximately 30 degrees in a counterclockwise direction fromthe position shown in FIG. 14A. The rotary sensor 360 provides a signalto the controller 50 of the rotational position of the dial 256. Inresponse, the controller 50 positions the valve disc 72 as shown in FIG.15D. More particularly, the valve disc 72 continues to block flowthrough the hot water inlet opening 146, while permitting full waterflow through the cold water inlet opening 148. The outer control edge178 of the control recess 170 in the valve disc 72 fully overlaps thecold water inlet opening 148. As such, cold water passes from cold waterinlet 80, through cold water inlet opening 148 and flow control recess170, to outlet opening 150 and outlet 86. In this state, the LED 366 oftemperature indicator 358 provides a full (e.g., 100% illumination) bluelight.

FIGS. 14E and 15E represent the faucet 10 in a mixed water, full flowposition within the temperature control mode. This position isillustratively set when the dial 256 is rotated approximately 67 degreesin a counterclockwise direction from the position shown in FIG. 14A. Therotary sensor 360 provides a signal to the controller 50 of therotational position of the dial 256. In response, the controller 50positions the valve disc 72 as shown in FIG. 15E. More particularly, thevalve disc 72 permits equal flow through the hot water inlet opening 146and the cold water inlet opening 148. The inner control edges 176, 180of the control recess 170 in the valve disc 72 overlap equal portions ofthe hot water inlet opening 146 and the cold water inlet opening 148,respectively. As such, cold water passes from cold water inlet 80,through cold water inlet opening 148 and flow control recess 170, tooutlet opening 150 and outlet 86. Simultaneously, hot water passes fromhot water inlet 78, through hot water inlet opening 146 and flow controlrecess 170 (where it mixes with cold water from cold water inlet opening148), to outlet opening 150 and outlet 86. In this state, the LED 366 oftemperature indicator 358 provides a full mix of blue and red light(e.g., 50% blue light and 50% red light at full illumination).

FIGS. 14F and 15F represent the faucet 10 in a hot water, full flowposition. The hot water, full flow position provides the maximum flowrate at the maximum temperature to the outlet 86. This position isillustratively set when the dial 256 is rotated approximately 124degrees in a counterclockwise direction from the position shown in FIG.14A. The rotary sensor 360 provides a signal to the controller 50 of therotational position of the dial 256. In response, the controller 50positions the valve disc 72 as shown in FIG. 15F. More particularly, thevalve disc 72 blocks flow through the cold water inlet opening 148,while permitting full water flow through the hot water inlet opening146. The outer control edge 174 of the control recess 170 in the valvedisc 72 fully overlaps the hot water inlet opening 146. As such, hotwater passes from hot water inlet 78, through hot water inlet opening146 and flow control recess 170, to outlet opening 150 and outlet 86. Inthis state, the LED 366 of temperature indicator 358 provides a full(e.g., 100% illumination) red light.

The inner control edges 176, 180 and outer control edges 174, 176 aredimensioned such that the flow control recess 170 provides asubstantially constant flow rate to water supplied to outlet opening 150as the valve disc 72 rotates between the cold water, full flow position(FIG. 15D), the mixed water, full flow position (FIG. 15E), and the hotwater, full flow position (FIG. 15F).

With reference now to FIGS. 16 and 17, an identification device,illustratively a storage device or faucet component memory device 400,may facilitate the use of interchangeable components with the electronicfaucet 10. For example, the faucet component memory device 400 allowsthe use of a single electronic flow control system 22, including anelectronic proportioning valve (EPV)(including mixing valve 44, valveactuator 46, and controller 50), with different user input devices orinterfaces 35 at remote locations. In one illustrative embodiment, thememory device 400 is associated with and secured to the user interface35 above the deck 14 and communicates with controller 50 to allow forcontrol of electronic components, such as the valve actuator 46positioned below the mounting deck 14, from a remote control location.As further detailed herein, different memory devices 400 may beassociated with different faucet components, including different userinterfaces 35 and mixing valves 44.

In the illustrative embodiment, the faucet component memory device 400is in electrical communication with the controller 50 for identifyingits associated faucet component. In response, the controller 50establishes a corresponding control configuration of the faucetcomponent (e.g., user interface 35). In the following description, thefaucet component may be referred to as the user interface 35 forillustrative purposes. However, it should be appreciated that the faucetcomponent associated with memory device 400 may include other parts ofelectronic faucet 10, such as the delivery spout 12 or the mixing valve44.

The controller 50 of the electronic flow control system 22 allows forelectronic control of the mixing valve 44 located below the sink deck 14from user interface 35 at a remote control location, illustrativelyabove the sink deck 14. The user interface 35 may be co-located with anyother faucet component (e.g., the delivery spout 12) or may define onits own a faucet component in a separate location. The user interface 35may include a variety of input devices such as the potentiometer 360defining flow user input 250, or capacitive sensor defining activationuser input 390.

As shown in FIG. 17, the user interface 35 may also be moresophisticated and contain an internal processor 410 that interpretsinputs from various sources and outputs an electrical signal to thecontroller 50 of the electronic flow control system 22. There are anumber of potential variables even between different versions of sameconfiguration or type of faucet component. For example, similar userinterfaces 35 may include different travel limits on potentiometer 360or different activation threshold levels for capacitive sensor 390.

A protocol is provided for communication between the user interface 35and the controller 50 such that electronic flow control systems 22,including controllers 50, may be standardized for use with differentuser interfaces 35. This standard system 22 may be universallycompatible with all of the faucet component configurations (e.g.,spouts, manual valve handles, faucet hubs, etc.) available and allow fornew faucet component configurations to be added while retaining olderprogramming instructions of controller 50. The adaptation to varioususer interface configurations may occur automatically (e.g., during afaucet initialization or start-up routine) and not require additionalinput from the installer. The size and cost of hardware required for theremote user interface identification is considered nominal.

With reference to FIG. 18, identification (ID) data or information 401(e.g., an identifying number) is electronically stored in the memorydevice 400 of the respective faucet component. For example, theidentification information 401 may include group data 403 and individualdata 405. The group data 403 illustratively includes generic componentinformation, such as family data 407, genus data 409, and species data411. For example, family data 407 may be a certain collection of faucetcomponents (e.g., “contemporary” faucet suite), genus data 409 may be asubset of the family data 407 (e.g., centerset or wide spread faucet ofthe faucet suite), and species data 411 may be a particular type ofcomponent of the identified genus (e.g., valve 44 or user interface 35).Individual data 405 is illustratively information unique to theparticular component or part. In other words, individual data 405 isrepresentative of component attributes (unique for that particularcomponent or part). The individual data 405 may be established andstored in the memory device 400 at the factory during a calibrationprocess at assembly, where component attributes are determined.

The identification data 401 allows the controller 50 to detect connectedfaucet components and determine the appropriate control configurationfor those detected faucet components. In an illustrative embodiment, theidentification data 401 may be representative of a control configurationof a user interface 35 as defined by the controller 50. When aconnection is made through a communication cable 402, the controller 50queries the memory device 400 about the configuration of the userinterface 35 over a serial link. Based on the feedback, a particularprogram, or set of instructions, is selected from an internal memory ofthe electronic flow control system 22 by the controller 50 to controlthe valve actuator 46, and therefore the mixing valve 44 and resultingparameters (e.g., flow rate and/or temperature) of water supplied to theoutlet 16. The program of controller 50 may receive simple input fromthe remote control user interface 35, such as the voltage value frompotentiometer 360 and capacitive sense input from capacitor 390. Thisinput from the user interface 35 may then be computed by controller 50into the required position for the valve disc 72 desired outlet waterflow rate, temperature, and/or faucet activation status (i.e., on oroff).

The controller 50 of valve disc 72 may also output signals to the LED366 for providing the appropriate color to the user interface 35, andthereby providing a user indication of water temperature and/or statusof valve 44. In an alternative embodiment, the user interface 35 mayinclude a processor that takes inputs from various user inputs andconverts them to a direct control signal to the controller 50. Theoutputs, such as LEDs, would be handled directly over a serial link.

The connection between the controller 50 of the electronic flow controlsystem 22 and the user interface 35 may be provided over a standard 4 or8 wire cable 402 having a first end connected to the user interface 35,and having a second end connected to a connector 404, illustratively an8 pin RJ45 plug. A corresponding connector 406, illustratively an RJ45socket, is supported by the electronic flow control system 22. Arepresentative wire configuration of cable 402 is shown below:

Wire Number Wire Color Function 1W Brown Red LED 2W Blue Blue LED 3WYellow I2C Data 4W Green 3.3 V Switched 5W Red Ground 6W Black I2C Clock7W Orange Open 8W Slate Capacitive Sense

In the configuration of FIG. 16, the memory device 400 comprises anon-volatile memory, illustratively an Electrically ErasableProgrammable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) on a printed circuit board (PCB)that stores information about the upper faucet component (e.g., the userinterface 35 coupled to the spout 12). The PCB is illustratively fixedto spout 12 through conventional means, such as adhesives or fasteners.Identification data or information 401 stored within memory device 400illustratively includes a component ID number that may containrepresentative family data 407, genus data 409, and species data 411.Other information 401 stored in the memory device 400 may includecharacteristics of the individual user interface 35 (i.e., individualdata 405), including factory determined calibration data. For example,memory device 400 may store limits of travel for potentiometer 360 thatmeasures rotation of dial 256. The limits allow for the dial 256 to beindividually configured, allowing a single controller 50 program to beused for dials 256 that have different ranges of rotation. This alsoallows for compensation of locational tolerances in the potentiometer360 and the valve actuator 46 and mixing valve 44.

The memory device 400 illustratively communicates with the electronicflow control system 22 over a serial bus, such as an inter-integrated(I2C) serial interface, using a power, ground, clock and data port.These correspond to wires 3W-6W on the standard chart above. The analogsignal from the potentiometer 360 is converted to a digital signal usingan analog to digital (A/D) converter or chip 408 that outputs a serialsignal over the I2C data ports. Converting the signal to digitalsimplifies the connection between the user interface 35 and theelectronic flow control system 22 and eliminates analog signal changesdue to wire resistance between the electronic flow control system 22 andthe user interface 35. In addition, other interfaces, such as voltageinput or external digital inputs may be readily substituted forpotentiometer 360. For simple arrangements of the type shown in FIG. 16,the capacitive sense input 390 is conducted directly along wire number8W to the controller 50 in the electronic flow control system 22 foranalysis. The output for the LED indicator 366 is transmitted over wires1W and 2W. Note that the LED 366 share a ground with I2C to reduce thewiring complexity, leaving wire 7W open for future expansion.

Another illustrative remote control/spout configuration is shown in FIG.17 as including a digital processor 410 fixed to the faucet component(e.g., spout 12) and including internal faucet component memory device400. When the controller 50 of the electronic flow control system 22queries the processor 410 for configuration, the processor 410 indicatesthat it is a “smart” interface and the processor 410 loads theappropriate program from memory device 400. The spout processor 410monitors various inputs (capacitive, resistive or otherwise) andinterprets them in the desired user outcome. This information istransmitted back to the controller 50 over the I2C ports (wires 3W-6W).Feedback from the controller 50 may also be transmitted over the I2Cports, which the processor 410 converts into outputs (i.e., LED 366).Since the smart spout 12 of FIG. 17 only uses the I2C interface, wires1W, 2W, 7W, and 8W are not needed and could be eliminated from the cable412 (a 4 wire cable would use the 4 center RJ45 slots). This wouldreduce the wire size, allowing for smaller spouts/remote controls.

The storage of identification data 401 on the memory device 400 securedto the faucet component (e.g. spout 12 or remote control), and resultingconfiguration information determined by the controller 50, allows forthe use a single electronic flow control system 22 for various faucetcomponents, including different user interfaces 35 and input means. Theconversion of the input signal to a digital format minimizes errors intransmission to the electronic flow control system 22.

FIG. 19 further illustrates communication between memory devices 400A,400B, and 400C of various faucet components (illustratively each coupledwith the processors 410 of FIG. 17). Representative faucet componentsinclude user interface 35, valve 44, and auxiliary device 414,respectively. Auxiliary device 414 could be a number of different faucetrelated components, such as a diverter valve, a soap dispenser, or aZigbee interface (to facilitate remote communication). As shown,identification data 401A, 401B, 401C may be transferred between therespective components 35, 44 and 414.

Additionally, while the identification devices 400 detailed aboveillustratively store identification data 401 and communicate same tocontroller 50 via electrical signals (either through cables orwirelessly), other identification devices may be substituted therefor.For example, mechanical or electromechanical devices may be used toidentify respective faucet components to the controller 50. Suchalternative devices may include pin connectors, micro switches, and/ormagnets.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference tocertain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist withinthe spirit and scope of the invention as described and defined in thefollowing claims.

1. An electronic faucet comprising: an upper faucet component configuredto be coupled above a sink deck, the upper faucet component including auser interface; an electrically operable valve configured to besupported below the sink deck; a component memory device secured to theupper faucet component, the component memory device storingidentification data associated with the faucet component; a controllerin electrical communication with the user interface, the electricallyoperable valve and the component memory device, the controllerconfigured to receive the identification data from the component memorydevice, the identification data representative of a controlconfiguration of the user interface, the controller selecting a set ofinstructions based upon the control configuration, the set ofinstructions controlling operation of the electrically operable valve inresponse to input from the user interface.
 2. The electronic faucet ofclaim 1, wherein the upper faucet component comprises one of a deliveryspout and a valve handle, the user interface being supported on thefaucet component.
 3. The electronic faucet of claim 1, wherein theidentification data includes information on the type of user interface,and the set of instructions based upon the control configurationassociates signals received by the controller from the user interfaceand the desired position of a valve member of the electrically operablevalve.
 4. The electronic faucet of claim 3, wherein the user interfacecomprises a rotary sensor, and the controller utilizes the controlconfiguration to associate voltage from the rotary sensor with thedesired position of the valve member.
 5. The electronic faucet of claim3, wherein the user interface comprises a capacitive sensor, and thecontroller utilizes the control configuration to establish a thresholdvoltage for valve activation.
 6. The electronic faucet of claim 1, wherethe electrically operably valve comprises: a mixing valve including: ahot water inlet; a cold water inlet spaced from the hot water inlet; anoutlet spaced from the hot water inlet and the cold water inlet; and avalve member supported for movement relative to the hot water inlet andthe cold water inlet to control the flow of water from the hot waterinlet and the cold water inlet to the outlet; an actuator operablycoupled to the valve member for moving the valve member; the controllerbeing operably coupled to the actuator for selectively providing a flowcontrol mode of operation and a temperature control mode of operation bycausing the actuator to move the valve member; and wherein input to theuser interface within a first input range causes the controller tooperate in the flow control mode, and input to the user interface withina second input range causes the controller to operate in the temperaturecontrol mode, the flow control mode positioning the valve member toprovide variable flow rate of water through the cold water inlet to theoutlet while preventing the flow of water through the hot water inlet tothe outlet, and the temperature control mode positioning the valvemember to provide substantially constant flow rate of water through theoutlet and variable mixing of water from the hot water inlet and thecold water inlet to adjust the temperature of water at the outlet. 7.The electronic faucet of claim 6, further comprising: a temperaturesensor in communication with the controller and fluidly coupled to theoutlet for measuring the temperature of water supplied to the outlet;and a light supported by the input member for providing an indication ofwater temperature measured by the temperature sensor.
 8. The electronicfaucet of claim 1, wherein the component memory device comprises anelectrically erasable programmable read-only memory.
 9. An electronicfaucet assembly comprising: a faucet component; a component memorydevice secured to the faucet component, the component memory devicestoring identification data associated with the faucet component; and acontroller in electrical communication with the component memory device,the controller determining a control configuration based upon theidentification data received from the component memory device, andoperating the faucet based upon the determined control configuration.10. The electronic faucet of claim 9, further comprising: a userinterface supported by the faucet component; and an electricallyoperable valve in electrical communication with the controller; whereinthe controller selects a set of instructions based upon the controlconfiguration, the set of instructions controlling operation of theelectrically operable valve in response to input from the userinterface.
 11. The electronic faucet of claim 10, wherein the faucetcomponent comprises one of a delivery spout and a valve handle, the userinterface being supported on the faucet component.
 12. The electronicfaucet of claim 10, wherein the identification data includes informationon the type of user interface, and the set of instructions based uponthe control configuration associates signals received by the controllerfrom the user interface and the desired position of a valve member ofthe electrically operable valve.
 13. The electronic faucet of claim 12,wherein the user interface comprises a rotary sensor, and the controllerutilizes the control configuration to associate voltage from the rotarysensor with the desired position of the valve member.
 14. The electronicfaucet of claim 12, wherein the user interface comprises a capacitivesensor, and the controller utilizes the control configuration toestablish a threshold voltage for valve activation.
 15. The electronicfaucet of claim 9, wherein the component memory device comprises anelectrically erasable programmable read-only memory.
 16. A method ofcontrolling operation of a faucet, the method comprising the steps of:providing a plurality of faucet components and a controller; at leastone of the faucet components including a memory device in electricalcommunication with the controller; at least one of the faucet componentsincluding an electrically operable valve in electrical communicationwith the controller; transmitting identification data associated withthe faucet component from the memory device to the controller; andselecting instructions with the controller for operating theelectrically operable valve based upon the identification data.
 17. Themethod of claim 16, wherein the faucet component comprises one of adelivery spout and a valve handle, and a user interface is supported onthe faucet component.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein theidentification data includes information on the type of user interface,and the instructions associate signals received by the controller fromthe user interface with the desired position of a valve member of theelectrically operable valve.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein theuser interface comprises a rotary sensor, and the controller utilizesthe identification date to associate voltage from the rotary sensor witha desired position of the valve member.